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By Victor Kaisar

TRU International Enrolment Down

International enrolment at TRU down 59 per cent this semester: TRU president

Feb 24, 2025 | 4:26 PM

KAMLOOPS — Thompson Rivers University (TRU) says new international enrolments are down 59 per cent when compared to last year.

In a report to the TRU Senate dated Feb. 14, TRU President Brett Fairbairn says the drop in enrolment for the Winter 2025 semester is “a direct result of federal policy changes affecting study and post-graduate work permits.”

“[It is] leading to an overall 19 per cent decline in international student numbers on the Kamloops campus,” Fairbairn said, noting the demand for programs at TRU has also shifted.

“The Bob Gaglardi School of Business and Economics, which previously saw high enrolment from international students, has experienced a significant decline, particularly at the post-baccalaureate level. Meanwhile, Science, Nursing, and Trades programs have shown growth, likely reflecting changing student interests and workforce needs.”

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Fairbairn’s report also notes domestic enrolment at TRU “remains stable or growing.”

“[The] Kamloops campus has seen a four per cent increase in domestic students, while Williams Lake campus enrolment is up 23 per cent,” Fairbairn said.

The drop in international student numbers means TRU has to also deal with a multi-million dollar tuition hit, as these students paid considerably more than their domestic counterparts.

Fairbairn also said Open Learning continues to expand at Thompson Rivers University, as are the number of Indigenous students.

“Open Learning remains a critical component of TRU’s enrolment strategy, with a 45 per cent increase in international students and a seven per cent increase in domestic enrolment,” Fairbairn said. “This growth suggests that Open Learning could play an increasingly important role in attracting students, particularly those seeking flexible study options.”

“Indigenous student representation continues to strengthen, particularly in Williams Lake, where 37 per cent of domestic students now self-identify as Indigenous. This increase aligns with TRU’s commitment to accessibility and support for Indigenous learners in the region.”